Puerto Vallarta was visited by a group of young dancers from Victoria, British Columbia last month.  Along with Vallarta's own dance group, PRO DANZA, they  performed a showcase presentation on the 17th of March at the Cecatur Auditorium.  This event was sponsored by Pro Danza, Kidz Only, Benitto's Deli, Beaches Plaza Neptuno and Nicole&Co. 

The Canadian Kidz were students of the Janice Tooby MacDonald Dance Studio and we all agree that Janice did a super job of preparing them for the Vallarta performances.  Their second presentation was at the Mayan Palace Hotel in Nuevo Vallarta and despite near starvation, the kidz rose to the occasion and entertained both tourists and locals.  Pro Danza performed as well and everyone agreed that the combination of Classical Ballet, Jazz, Tap and Modern Stage was a success. 

The group's one and only young man, six year old Justin Callen gave John Travolta a run for his money in a number called 'Dancin Fever'.  Justin also performed with his sister Karlee in a tap duet (wearing a dog costume that once belonged to Nicole?)  and as a muscle bound lifeguard in a beach style modern stage routine.  (a whole lot of talent in a small package, huh?)

Janice's 'Austin Powers' group was a huge hit and the female population of Puerto Vallarta are now frantically trying to find the same pink Go-Go dresses that were worn.  (way to go Janice, just imagine plastic dresses in Vallarta's summer heat?) 

During the week, the Canadian children attended ballet classes at Pro Danza with Melchor and Deborah and on Wednesday, Victoria's talented Marsha Main Pimlott gave a jazz class for the students of Pro Danza.  This was very well received and Vallarta's young ballerinas got a chance to try something new. 

The final presentation was held at CASA HOGAR, Vallarta's orphanage and it certainly turned out to be a pleasant surprise.  The Canadian group brought the most amazing gifts for the children and as well, the 14 basketballs that were props for the 'Swish' tap group and the teddy bears that were used in 'Oh So Quiet' were presented to the orphanage.  The Vallarta children watched the performance in awe and when it was over, this cheery group got up and proceeded to give their own rendition of the Ricky Martin number and then suggested that 'Back Street Boys' was more their style.  This was a wonderful experience for all and the volunteers at CASA HOGAR want to say "Muchisimas Gracias" for everything.